Another said: ‘Some people do it for different reasons – I’ve heard pain over aesthetic being one of them, but every time I see it, I still think “how is this not akin to blackface, damn these people want to be black so bad!”‘.

To which Bella has replied: ‘Racist? How the hell could it be interpreted as racist? It’s a tattoo!’

What is blackwork?

Tattoos date back thousands of years, when the first inks used were derived from bone or charred wood.

Ancient tribes used them as marks of identity and authority and blackwork tattoos were commonplace among tribes.

Blackwork is a technique where the skin is completely covered with thick, black ink and it’s definitely nothing new.

Belle claims that tattooing has become a kind of therapy for her.

Speaking to Allure, Bella says: ‘It became my only true form of comfort and solace and has really helped me a lot. I love the ritualistic practice of it and the phenomenal strength and mental calm it brings me, a very powerful type of meditation which I have grown to love.’

A post shared by Hanumantra (@hanumantra) on Sep 11, 2017 at 9:15am PDT

‘Blackwork is a tattoo choice, it’s a lifestyle and it’s a philosophy, believing that less really is more and understanding that we should not be afraid to stand out in a world full of people trying to fit in,’ he says.

‘Every tattoo I do should enhance a person’s natural form and by taking the time to handcraft their individual design, convey and amplify an inner strength of spirit, allowing them to feel empowered and protected as though wearing a layer of armour. A modern-day warrior ready for battle.

‘Receiving a tattoo is a right of passage, it is a journey we embark on and when we emerge at the other end, lessons will have been learned and a life experience gained.’